French without a master

by Tristan Bernard

FRENCH WITHOUT A MASTER

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Scene:—A small office in a hotel. There is a large door center, giving upon the hallway. Down-stage and up-stage to the right are doors; similar doors on the left. Half-way down-stage on the left is the Cashier’s desk, with inkstands and register. On the walls are posters and train schedules. Half-way down-stage and a little to left of center is a table covered with magazines, etc., and a telephone. As the curtain rises, the Porter is seen seated on a small stool just below the Cashier’s desk. A moment later, enter Gerald and Séraphine, each with a valise. Séraphine is typically French and wears stylish clothes of the latest cut; Gerald is equally well dressed. He goes to the Porter, lays down his valise, takes that of Séraphine and places it beside his own.

Gerald. We’d like two rooms, please.

Porter. One moment, sir; I’ll call the cashier.

Gerald. Is there a telegraph office around here?

Porter. Yes, sir, it’s just around the corner. Shall I take your message, sir?

Gerald. No, I’ll take it myself.

(The Porter goes out.)

Séraphine. Mon chéri, je voudrais une chambre exposée au soleil.